THE MEROLA FAMILY
SERVING PITTSBURGH FOR OVER 100 YEARS
Gennaro Merola — First Generation
In 1920, Gennaro Merola immigrated from Santa Maria, Italy, arriving in New York through Ellis Island with the knowledge and skill of the plastering trade.
U.S. Census records later listed his occupation as plasterer, reflecting the craft that would become his life’s work.
After settling in Universal, Pennsylvania, Gennaro established his plastering business, earning a reputation for quality workmanship, honesty, and dedication.
He passed his knowledge and passion for the trade on to his children, creating a family legacy that has endured for four generations.
“From one craftsman who crossed an ocean to a family tradition that continues a century later.”
Mike Merola — Second Generation
Mike Merola continued the family’s plastering tradition and passed his knowledge of the trade on to his children.
Through years of dedication, hard work, and craftsmanship, Mike taught his son, Bill Merola Sr., the skills and pride that come with being a plasterer.
The trade was also carried into the next generation through hands-on experience.
From a young age, Bill Merola Jr. learned the craft by working alongside his grandfather, doing summer and weekend patch work.
Those early experiences helped shape his skills and appreciation for the trade, eventually leading him to apprentice under his father, Bill Sr.
Through Mike’s dedication and willingness to teach, the Merola family plastering tradition continued to grow — passing down not only a skill, but a legacy of craftsmanship and hard work.
William (Bill) Gennaro Merola Sr. — Third Generation
The third generation continued to build upon the strong foundation established before him.
Bill Merola Sr. dedicated his life to the plastering trade while also building multiple successful businesses along the way.
Through hard work, determination, and a commitment to craftsmanship, Bill carried on the family tradition of quality plastering.
He passed on his knowledge, skills, and pride in the trade to his son, Bill Jr., ensuring that the Merola name and plastering legacy would continue for another generation.
William (Bill) Gennaro Merola Jr. — Fourth Generation
Pictured above with his father
Today, Bill Jr. continues to carry on the craft, preserving the skills and traditions passed down through his father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Bill Jr. began learning the plastering trade at just 10 years old, working alongside his grandfather performing plaster repairs.
Throughout his teenage years, he spent weekends and summers working for his father’s company, gaining hands-on experience in the trade.
Bill joined the business full-time, plastering countless new homes and completing remodeling projects throughout the Pittsburgh area.
Plaster repair work is what we do day-to-day currently, carrying on the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Plaster repair work and ornamental restoration remain our specialties, preserving historic craftsmanship while delivering quality, long-lasting results for every customer.
“From one craftsman who crossed an ocean to a family tradition that continues a century later.”
Handcrafted Plaster Ceiling Ring
Every curve of this decorative ceiling ring was created by hand. Bill Merola built and carved the plaster directly on the ceiling, meticulously shaping the profile until it achieved a perfectly smooth, symmetrical finish. The original pattern was developed decades ago by Bill’s grandfather, Mike Merola, who fashioned the template from a hand-cut piece of wood. This piece represents the enduring craftsmanship and traditional techniques that have been passed down through the Merola family for generations.